The inaugural PS27 Black Founders Forum has attracted a number of local and national sponsors, with companies like PwC and JPMorgan Chase signing up to support the event.
The forum will be held at the Adam Herbert University Center at the University of North Florida on June 15 in celebration of Juneteenth and to unify Black entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from across the region.
PS27 Ventures CEO Jim Stallings said the forum’s goal is to attract and inspire more people to become entrepreneurs and innovators:
“Founders will learn how to build sustainable businesses that create jobs, positive returns for shareholders, and personal wealth," said Stallings. This unique forum will inspire new entrepreneurs to start and continue their life's journey through the challenges presented by the markets and society.”
Carla Harris, a Jacksonville native and senior client advisor at Morgan Stanley will serve as keynote speaker. A Bishop Kenny and Harvard University graduate, Harris became one of the most powerful Black woman on Wall Street and chaired the National Women's Business Council in 2013.
JPMorgan Chase’s Advancing Black Pathways will serve as the Forum’s lead sponsor. Created in 2019 to support the economic development of Black communities including entrepreneurs, ABP is committed to supporting access to business education, coaching, banking products, and financing solutions.
"JPMorgan Chase believes in supporting Black entrepreneurs at all stages of their businesses,” said Byna Elliott, global head of Advancing Black Pathways at JPMorgan Chase. “Our firm is proud to recognize and celebrate the efforts and achievements of Black business owners and is dedicated to providing them with the tools and resources to thrive."
Supporting sponsors include FIS, Florida Blue, Florida Venture Forum, Johnson Venture Partners, Black Knight, and others.
The event will include a pitch competition presented by Jacksonville Transportation Authority. Five companies will be selected to pitch their idea to a live audience. One winning company will be eligible to receive a venture capital investment of $250,000.
The conference also includes the Black Founders Showcase, where more than 30 Black-owned companies will showcase their products and services. Founders can apply to be in the Black Founders Showcase and pitch competition by visiting ps27foundation.org.
